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Music Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Music instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Ken

"Alex G. is the perfect music teacher for my son!

Alex G. has not only been a great piano instructor for my son, but a great communicator, as my son is on

the autism spectrum. He also inspires my son to be a better player than he was the week before. I'm impressed with his musical knowledge and taste as well as his talent for playing and teaching music. I really am a grateful dad."

...

New York, NY teacher:
Alex G.

Review by Veronica

"Bill is a very talented, professional, reliable and kind teacher. He has been working with my son for almost a year now and we can definitely see the dif

ference. My son is always eager to practice and learn when Bill comes over for the lesson. Since starting working with Bill, my son has surpassed all the kids in his junior high school's band group. This is particularly important and extremely helpful for when he auditions for a scholarship at the catholic high school that we are considering."

...

New York, NY teacher:
Bill T.

Review by Alexandria

"Matthew has been wonderful with my little Brother Joel (who runs on energizer batteries). He's patience is his virtue. I look forward to watching my broth

er grow from a total beginner to future star!"

...

New York, NY teacher:
Matthew W.

Review by Kathleen

"Lori is the best. My daughter is a singer-songwriter who has never had much formal training. As she approached her junior year in high school she announce

d that she would like to go to college for music. We toured her top choices and found out she needed some very specific skills she had not yet developed. Exasperated by her rejection of the instructors I found I told her to find her own instructor and let me know when she had. She found Lori online and we gave her a trial run. Lori is very talented skilled and patient. My daughter's singing and music theory abilities have soared since she began working with Lori. She got into her top school choice. One of the best music schools in the world for what she wants to do. I know Lori was a big part of making that possible."

...

Santa Cruz, CA teacher:
Lori S.

Review by DALE

"Patient and Well-versed

Rich's lessons are fantastic, thorough and ALWAYS different. He is unpredictable in his lessons yet this allows for an exciting l

earning environment that I'd look forward to every lesson. His gentle approach and kind, encouraging words made me push past my normal skills and learn to be better at the guitar. I WILL use Rich again and suggest anyone looking for just a random lesson or ongoing training to see him. 5 stars!"

...

Phoenix, AZ teacher:
Richard C.

Review by Kimberly

"Lindsey is an incredible singer & teacher!!

We absolutely love Lindsey!! My daughter has been taking voice lessons from her for several months now & we c

ouldn't be happier. She has a fun, wonderful personality which makes lessons a delight. She is such a skilled vocalist & her method of teaching is very effective. She really gets my daughter involved in the process, continually guiding her to reach her goals & utilize her strengths. I highly recommend her for anyone who wants to learn to sing."

...

Austin, TX teacher:
Lindsey P.

Review by Tykeaira

"Denise B. works with my 7 year old son via Skype. She does an excellent job explaining exercises to him even though they are not physically together. With

her great communication and direction I have seen improvement in my sons vocal range. At times when he is having difficulty with an exercise or song Denise is very patient and gives good age appropriate examples and explanation until he grasps the objective. We are continuing to use Denise and are excited to see future progress."

...

New Orleans, LA teacher:
Denise B.

Review by Christine

"Laura was a fantastic instructor who taught my children to love playing violin! They actively looked forward to their violin lessons and made good progre

ss with her."

...

Boston, MA teacher:
Laura Z.

Review by Jen

"Darcy is a warm, thoughtful, patient teacher. She has a very calm demeanor and connected immediately with my 11 year old daughter. She gave each lesson

Popular Music Teachers Near Herndon

Jennifer V.

About Jennifer

My name is Jennifer. I got my degree in vocal performance and minored in Jazz. I began voice lessons myself when I was eight. I am a mezzo soprano, and can teach both female and male voices. I have performed in several opera productions including but not limited to The Marriage of Figaro, Dido and Aeneus, Tenderland, and Hand of Bridge. I have worked and performed in masterworks by Brahms, Chopin, Mozart to name a few. I studied in French, English, Spanish, Italian, and German. I studied diction, ear training, piano, music history, pedagogy, and music theory. I have also performed with artists

such as New York Voices, Bobby Mcferrin and Kurt Elling. I was blessed with many learning opportunities to grow in my passion and I would love to pass that knowledge and passion to anyone who wants to learn.

*** Lesson Details ***Lessons are designed around the needs of each student. The first lessons is always spent testing range, knowledge and abilities already known by the student. Then the student weighs in on what kind of music they would like to learn and what they hope to gain from the lessons. Theory and ear training are incorporated into the lessons. We work on breathing, technique and style. Generally we start with English or Italian. We work on vocal performance from a classical standpoint but Jazz and Broadway can also be taught if desired by the student. Scales and exercises are given each week to be worked on until the next lesson. A recording device is encouraged if the student cannot play the piano. Also, a voice note book to take notes during the lesson to be used during practice during the week.

*** Travel Equipment ***I have a keyboard and books

*** Specialties ***classical voice and jazz voice.

...

Reviews

Bjorn S. June 10, 2015
Singing ·
In home Verified Student

Very professional. I could tell quite a difference after 5 lessons.

Steve G. April 29, 2015
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

I really liked Jennifer. I had a very specific reason why I wanted to take lessons. I wanted to sing a specific song at a memorial service for my mother. I have always been self conscious about my singing voice . After the very first lesson I started feeling better about being able to pull this off. She is very supportive and a really compassionate person. She actually agreed to go to the service to play the panino so I could more comfortably sing this song....need I say more about Jennifer?

Bharath R. November 3, 2014
Singing ·
In studio Verified Student

I've been taking lessons from Jen for a while now, and I must say that I've improved dramatically since I started. Jen specifically focuses on the musical style that you like while still using classical methods to make sure the proper form and technique is learned.

First thing she did was to make sure I had proper form, breathing and technique before moving on to more advanced topics. This way bad habits are removed quickly, which is crucial to push through to the next level and break vocal plateaus.

I would recommend Jen as a vocal teacher for any style and age without hesitation. Great person to talk to, knowledgeable, and most of all fun. There are times when it gets frustrating, but working with Jen makes it a challenge and rewarding when you can hear yourself getting better.

Keeping playing; music never sleeps!!
Bharath

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Jennifer V.

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Jennifer V.

Herndon, VA 20170

(4)

starting at

$42
/ 30-min

John N.

About John

I have been playing guitar and bass for over 35 years and traveled the world playing concerts in Clubs and Stadiums. My band ESTUS was signed to Columbia Records by Clive Davis, I played with the Eddie Kirkland Blues Band, formed Fat City in Woodstock NY, and played toured nationally with Quicksilver Messenger Service. Currently I play in RSB, the Rick Sickmen Band, and teach at the School of Rock in Vienna. I want to share my knowledge and extensive experience with students to 'play it forward' while having fun.

own goals and style of learning. I will try to have my students playing songs as soon as possible, in the style (rock, blues, country) that they want, while teaching some basic music theory to build on. My studio is fully equipped with instruments, amps, recording equipment, drums and PA system.

Reviews

Haitao D. January 10, 2015
Guitar ·
In studio Verified Student

I have been learning guitar with John for past 3 months and it is a great experience. John is very knowledgeable and patient to guide me with the much more efficient path to learn play with songs. I was trying to learn from books and YouTube videos for past 1 year, but much more improvements were made after two lessons with John! I also love his teaching styles very much: trying to explain WHY things work the way it is (e.g., music theory) instead of give a lot of "recipe level" exercises you can get from a book. I would strongly recommend him as a guitar teacher to any level!

Jim O. September 6, 2014
Blues Guitar ·
In home Verified Student

I'm about to have my forth lesson with John and I must say he is an amazing musician and an amazing guitar teacher. In the last four weeks, John and I have been working on blues guitar licks. I've been playing at the same level for years. John has changed that for me immediately after our first lesson. He has made a huge difference in my playing and my approach to the guitar.

After I finish writing this review, I will be signing up for additional lessons.

Thanks John

Cliff B. December 14, 2013
Bass Guitar Verified Student

Wonderful instructor

I chose John because of his extensive experience as a professional musician and recommend him highly if you are looking for a great instructor. If his patience with this 44 year old starting musician is any indication, I'm certain he's good with anyone at any age!

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John N.

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John N.

Chantilly, VA 20151

(4)

starting at

$39
/ 45-min

Lena E.

About Lena

GUITAR CURRICULUM (VOCAL INSTRUCTION CURRICULUM SEE BELOW):You like music. I like music. You want to learn how to play guitar. I can teach you how to play guitar, and so much more. It's that simple. I have real-world experience in getting out there and playing guitar in a band, in front of a real crowd, and I can teach you how to do the same. Whether you're interested in performing in front of your relatives, at your local open mic down the street, or if you want to pursue music as a possible profession, you need strong, basic fundamentals to get there. That's where I come in.

**

* Lesson Details ***Lessons include: guitar technique/knowledge/maintenance:-Getting to know your instrument, such as the name for parts of the guitar, and what they contribute to the instrument. How to identify notes on each string and in every fret across the fretboard. First, you need to learn how to speak guitar. This is like learning the basic language so we can communicate with each other. You: "Why do I have to identify all the parts of the guitar?" Me: "So when I tell you to strum over the sound hole, you won't mistake it for your ear."

-How to tune and care for your guitar such as changing strings You: "Why do I need to learn how to tune my guitar and properly change my strings?" Me: "So when you learn how to play the thing, it sounds good and stays in tune, and your neighbor's dog won't start howling when you pick up your instrument."

-Chords and Strumming: Open chords, Power chords, Barre chords, 7th chords, 9th chords, 1st and 2nd inversion chords. More chords than you can shake a stick at. You: "Why do I need to learn chords?" Me: "So you string chords together, and play a song, Silly."

-Scales (Major scales, Natural minor scales, Harmonic minor scales, Melodic minor scales, In every key and in six different positions) You: "Why do I need to learn scales?" Me: "Just to torture you. Just kidding! Scales build strength and speed and get your two hands working together. And scales are fundamental for learning licks and writing melodies later on down the road."

-Other fundamentals include chord chart reading, tablature reading, and specific technical skills such as hammer-ons and pull-offs, palm muting, using a pick, and finger picking styles.

MUSIC THEORY:Strictly for impressing your friends and/or classmates. Ok, not really. Music theory is important, especially if you want to play other instruments down the road, and to give you a the "Big Picture" of music.

Fundamental theory you will learn includes-Basic music notation (The music alphabet, rhythm, the staff, ledger lines, time signatures, etc)-Major and Minor Scales and Key Signatures (You've heard about the Circle of Fifths. Now you'll be able to decipher it!)-How to identify and play intervals (Major, Minor, Perfect)-Chord theory (What makes a Major chord, well, Major; Minor chord, Minor. Diminished, Augmented, etc)-Harmonic Analysis You: "I've heard about this I IV V I progression stuff. What does that mean?" Me: "In due time, Grasshopper"-Transposition (Good for changing the keys of your favorite songs so you or your lead singer can sing them in his/her vocal range)

First we learn this stuff through take-home worksheets. Then, we apply what we know to the guitar and make it useful and practical.

Music history and appreciation. Ever wonder about the origins of the guitar and how it came about to be one of the most popular instruments played in modern time? Or who the great Blues guitarists were from the 30's and 40's and how they influenced later day Rockers such as Jimmy Page or Keith Richards? Or how about how modern Western music formed and is what it is today, starting with Ancient Greece, through the Middle Ages, to Beethoven, to Ragtime to popular music today? Yep, we got that covered. It's all about perspective.

Songwriting. So you're tired of playing other people's songs and it's time to get your thoughts on paper. Congratulations. You are officially an Artist as well as a Musician. I can teach you how to develop your lyrics and chord progressions into cohesive, tightly arranged songs sure to make your Mom or Girlfriend/Boyfriend proud. Songwriting expands the limits of learning, that simply copying another artist note-for-note cannot do. Tapping your "Creative Vein" is the ultimate path to learning music. Let's get started.

music performance. Alright, you got knowledge, you got skills, you got songs. You have the tools to get out there and show the world what you can do.

*** Studio Equipment ***office/studio 5 guitars seating for parents

*** Travel Equipment ***I have my own guitar and curriculum. Students are expected to have their own instruments.

*** Specialties ***Specializing in Rock, Folk, Country beginning guitar lessons. Focus on rhythm guitar, songwriting and performing. Incorporate music history and theory as well.

VOICE CURRICULUM INCLUDES:

VOCAL TECHNIQUE/KNOWLEDGE/MAINTENANCE:-Anatomy of the voice-Voice maintenance-Body awareness, relaxation and posture-Breath control and support-Tone creation and range building-Resonation-Tone placement-Diction

MUSIC THEORY:-Basic music notation (The music alphabet, rhythm, the staff, ledger lines, time signatures, etc)-Major and minor scales and key signatures-Intervals (major, minor, perfect)-Chord theory and harmonic analysis-Transposition-Aural and rhythm skills

MUSIC HISTORY AND APPRECIATION:Have you ever how modern Western music formed and how it became what it is today? We’ll start with Ancient Greece, travel through the Middle Ages, learn about Classical composers such as Beethoven, and study different styles of music from Ragtime to today’s popular music all with listening examples to immerse you into the world of music history.

SONGWRITINGIf you've grown tired of playing other people's music, then it’s time for you to get your songs on paper or recorded. I’ll teach you how to develop your lyrics and chord progressions into cohesive, tightly arranged songs. Songwriting expands the limits of learning that merely playing another artist’s music cannot do. Tapping your "creative vein" is the ultimate path to learning music.

MUSIC PERFORMANCEAlright, you've got knowledge, you've got skills and you've got songs. You have the tools to get out there and show the world what you can do. But before you hit the local area open mic or book a gig, let's talk about music performance. You’ll learn simple, effective techniques such as strong stage presence and audience rapport.

...

Reviews

Era S. June 10, 2015
Singing ·
In home Verified Student

Lena was super friendly. I was hesitant about taking voice lessons because I'm older and I have never had any training - she made me feel comfortable and confident. She taught me simple exercises and jumped right into the actual lesson!

Barbara M. June 8, 2015
Vocal Training ·
In studio Verified Student

Our singing lesson with Lena E has been a very good one! My daughter has really enjoyed the experience and Lena has built up her confidence to a whole new level. Thank you so much Lena for the inspirations and all your help.
Sincerely,
Barbara Mills

Suryanshu K. May 21, 2015
Singing ·
In home Verified Student

I think my son likes he way of teaching. Lena is a good teacher. First teaching class was awesome.

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Lena E.

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Lena E.

Centreville, VA 20121

(9)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

Megan A.

About Megan

I grew up on Long Island New York and am currently finishing up my music education degree at George Mason University. I have been playing flute for 13 years now and it's time I share my experience and love for music with others!

To me, music is an outlet and it's important that my students fall in love with music while also learning about it. Music has always been a driving force in my life and one of the greatest things I've been involved in. I hope to give my students the same opportunities I have had and make music an important part of their lives as well.

I had a lot of bad habits that developed over years so it will always be my goal to make sure this isn't the case with my students. Playing music should be fun, never too hard or painful. I will put a big emphasis on posture and building proper habits from the beginning.

My recommended length of time for a lesson is one hour. 30 minutes is not enough time once a week to really develop habits properly and really get into the heart of the music we will be working on.

I am really looking forward to acquiring more students!

...

Reviews

Veronica W. June 25, 2015
Flute ·
In studio Verified Student

Megan is an excellent flute teacher. I thought it was going to be difficult for me to learn how to play the flute but her method and patience has helped me and I am convinced that anyone can learn music with the right teacher. I highly recommend Megan for flute lessons.

Kim L. May 4, 2015
Flute ·
In studio Verified Student

We had a great experience with Megan. She's efficient and professional.

Lindsay L. January 6, 2015
Trumpet ·
In home Verified Student

Megan is working to get our 5th grader up and going on trumpet. He's a challenge, but she's up to it. She's pleasant, punctual and proficient. A great teacher.

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Megan A.

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Megan A.

Fairfax, VA 22031

(6)

starting at

$27
/ 30-min

Alexander S.

About Alexander

My name is Alex. I am a recent college graduate and I am committed to education. I have a bachelors degree in Political Science, minors in history and music. Through a scholarship designated internship, I was in the public schools of Guildford county NC schools as early as 2011 for music and social studies.

...

Reviews

Erick S. July 27, 2015
Trumpet ·
In home Verified Student

Very professional
I recommend him

Geron G. June 9, 2015
Trumpet ·
In studio

Alex is a fine person and excellent musician. I recommend him as a teacher.

Larry D. June 8, 2015

Ok. I have actually been one Alex's instructors! Not trumpet but Choir. Yes the guy can sing too. More importantly, he is an awesome guy, genuine person, and terrific musician. I just wish he could have stayed in NC so I could have him in my orchestra. I was his orchestra conductor and choral director for many years. Some DC area students are going to be very fortunate to have him as an instructor.

You can tell I like the guy! If he was just a little bit older I'd be begging him to marry my daughter. How's that for a reference?

Dr. Larry Dickens
Duncan Chair of Church Music
Associate Professor of Church Music
Campbell University Divinity School
Buies Creek, NC

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